John Asein, director-general of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, has reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to combating the circulation of pirated books in physical spaces and on online platforms.
A statement by NCC’s spokeswoman, Ijeoma Egbunike, indicated that the NCC boss made the statement during the handover of seized Bibles to stakeholders for humanitarian use.
Mr Asein said it was imperative to protect the rights of authors, publishers and other creators, ensuring they are rewarded for their creativity by preventing the circulation of pirated works.
According to him, the handover event is both symbolic and instructive, as it reflects the commission’s dual commitment to upholding the law and respecting the deep spiritual values of the Nigerian people.
Mr Asein said piracy was not only an offence against the law of the state, but also an offence against God and humanity. He added that it violates the principles of honesty, stewardship and respect for the work of others.
According to him, the handover of the items represents the commission’s balanced, firm and constructive approach to copyright enforcement.
Mr Asein urged all stakeholders to join the commission in building a culture where creativity is respected, rights protected, and integrity upheld.
While wishing Christians a blissful Easter celebration, Mr Asein said the Bible, as well as other religious and faith-based publications, enjoys full protection under copyright law.
The NCC boss reiterated that no person or organisation was permitted to reproduce, import, print, distribute or sell such works without the authorisation of the copyright owner.
According to him, unauthorised reproduction or importation of religious texts constitutes copyright infringement, a criminal offence under Nigerian law, and such acts are not merely technical violations.
Mr Asein said such acts undermine publishers’ and translators’ legitimate rights and investments and distort the integrity and authenticity of sacred texts.
He said the commission was working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service and other enforcement agencies to ensure that pirated materials were intercepted at the borders and removed from commercial circulation.
According to him, in line with the provisions of the law, infringing copies were liable to forfeiture and destruction, stressing that the commission has, in recent times, carried out the destruction of pirated books and materials across Nigeria.
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